One of the most iconic elements of Japanese folklore found in anime is the presence of yokai, supernatural creatures that range from mischievous spirits to terrifying monsters. Anime such as GeGeGe no Kitaro and Natsume’s Book of Friends feature a variety of yokai, often portraying them as misunderstood beings rather than purely evil entities. These shows humanize yokai, adding complexity to their characters and offering viewers a chance to understand them beyond traditional fear or superstition. The yokai serve as metaphors for humanity's relationship with the unknown and the forces of nature.

In addition to yokai, anime frequently features kami, the deities of Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion. In Spirited Away, for example, the bathhouse serves as a meeting place for various kami, where they come to cleanse themselves and rejuvenate. This anime presents a world where the spiritual realm coexists with the human world, reflecting the Shinto belief in the presence of spirits in nature. The respect for nature and the spiritual elements of everyday life, which are central to Shinto, are depicted vividly, immersing viewers in a world that reflects ancient Japanese beliefs.

The folklore of tengu, mysterious mountain-dwelling creatures, also plays a significant role in anime. These bird-like beings are often portrayed as both protectors and tricksters. In Tengai Makyō and The Morose Mononokean, tengu appear as complex characters who balance their duty to guard sacred places with their mischievous tendencies. Tengu in anime often symbolize the duality of nature itself—both nurturing and dangerous, depending on how it is approached by humans.

Kitsune, the shape-shifting fox spirits, are another prominent feature of Japanese folklore that frequently appears in anime. These spirits are often depicted as intelligent and cunning, sometimes serving as protectors while at other times causing chaos. In Naruto, the nine-tailed fox demon Kurama is a central figure in the series, embodying both the destructive and protective nature of kitsune in mythology. The anime uses this folklore to explore themes of inner strength, duality, and redemption.

Anime such as Mononoke and Mushishi delve even deeper into folklore by examining the relationships between humans and the spiritual world. These series often depict spirits, or mononoke, as forces that interact with humans based on their emotions, desires, or actions. The protagonists in these stories are often mediators between the human and spirit worlds, reflecting the ancient belief that spiritual harmony is essential for maintaining balance in the natural world. The philosophical nature of these anime encourages viewers to think critically about humanity’s impact on the environment and the unseen forces at play in daily life.

Japanese folklore also influences the depiction of morality in anime. Many traditional stories contain lessons about humility, respect for nature, and the consequences of greed or arrogance. These moral undertones can be seen in anime like Princess Mononoke, where the destructive effects of human encroachment on the natural world are emphasized. The anime portrays a conflict between industrialization and the ancient gods of the forest, serving as a modern parable about environmentalism and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Incorporating elements of folklore into anime not only brings these ancient stories to life but also allows for their reinterpretation in a contemporary context. By blending traditional myths with modern themes, anime creators can offer fresh perspectives on old tales. This fusion of the ancient and the new reflects the dynamic nature of folklore itself, which evolves over time while still preserving its core messages. Through anime, Japanese folklore remains a vibrant and relevant part of the cultural conversation, inviting audiences to explore a world where the mystical and the mundane coexist.